Efficacy of Intra Articular Injections in Different Grades of Osteoarthritis of Knee

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the efficacy of intra articular injections in different grades of osteoarthritis of knee. 
Study Design: Descriptive study 
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Department of Orthopedics Railway Hospital 
Rawalpindi and Ibn-e-Seina Hospital & Research Institute Multan started from June 2008 to June 2012. 
Materials and Methods: This study included 90 patients of either sex having mild, moderate and severe grades of 
osteoarthritis of knee based on radiographic findings. A study proforma was designed in which bio-statics and 
results of the study were recorded. Five intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid were given on weekly basis and 
patients were assessed for pain and functional activity at intervals of 0, 6 and 12 weeks by KSKS, WOMAC and 
VAS scoring system. These patients were selected consecutively. 
Results: In this study patients with mild and moderate grades of osteoarthritis of knee showed improvement but 
patients with severe grades of osteoarthritis either showed no response or less improvement.
Conclusion: Intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid is an effective modality in early stages of osteoarthritis 
of knee.